You might think that you would never drop out of high school. After all, even if you hate school, it will all be over within a couple of years at the most. Then you can work full time, go on to a vocational school, join the military, or even go to college if you decide that school really isn’t so bad, after all. But can you imagine the circumstances that would make it difficult (or even impossible) to stay in school? Things like pregnancy, family financial crises, conflicts with teachers, a language barrier, and bullying or fights with other students? Would you still have the drive to stay in school?

It’s important to recognize that kids who drop out aren’t necessarily stupid or crazy. Many students drop out because it seems like the only option. At the same time, staying in school is incredibly important in our society. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, high school dropouts make 27% less than people who graduated from high school. That means that for every $100 that a high school grad makes, a dropout makes $73. That’s a big difference! Add to that the fact that dropouts are 72% more likely to be unemployed than high school grads, and you’re looking at a real problem. If you can’t find a job in the first place, let alone a job that pays well, you’re going to have a tough time making a living!

The problem is that some teens don’t know the facts about dropping out of school. And others either aren’t planning for the future, or think that their situation is so desperate that the only solution is to drop out of school. Taking control of your life is a big responsibility, but somebody’s got to do it! (And that somebody is you!) The old saying, “Today is the first day of the rest of your life” really is true. You’ve got to figure out the path that’s best for you and your goals in life. The good news is that if you HAVE dropped out of school, you can always go back. Many teens have overcome adversity in their lives in order to finish school or get on a better path in life. If you want to finish high school, further your education, or find a positive alternative to school, find the necessary help to make that goal possible.

If you’ve dropped out of school, or you’ve thought about it, read on under DEFINED and HOW TO for more info that you should know!